Murfreesboro motorcycle accident lawyers

Murfreesboro Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Experienced representation after a motorcycle accident in Murfreesboro

At Rocky McElhaney Law Firm, we understand motorcycle accidents. Our Murfreesboro motorcycle accident attorneys know how to work to secure the compensation to which you’re entitled for your losses and damages, and will negotiate on your behalf with the insurance companies – so you can focus on healing from your injuries and moving on with your life.

Cases We Handle

Rocky McElhaney Law Firm: Car Accident & Injury Lawyers
2805 Old Fort Parkway
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
Phone: (615) 393-8583

Injury Attorney Rocky McElhaney

How can we help?

What types of motorcycle accidents do your Murfreesboro attorneys handle?

Our team of Murfreesboro attorneys is well-versed in handling a wide range of motorcycle accidents, including:

  • Intersection collisions. Accidents at intersections are common for motorcyclists, often involving a failure to yield, improper left turns, or red-light violations.
  • Lane splitting accidents. Riding between lanes can lead to accidents, especially if other drivers are not aware of or do not anticipate a motorcycle's presence.
  • Rear-end collisions. Motorcycles are more vulnerable to being rear-ended, which can result in serious injuries for the rider.
  • Single-vehicle accidents. Loss of control, skidding, or other factors can lead to accidents even without direct involvement of another vehicle.
  • Hit-and-run incidents. When a motorist flees the scene after colliding with a motorcycle, our attorneys can help navigate the legal process to seek justice.
  • Defective motorcycle parts. Accidents caused by faulty motorcycle parts or manufacturing defects fall under our expertise in product liability.

Regardless of the circumstances of your motorcycle accident, our Murfreesboro attorneys are dedicated to providing legal support to motorcyclists who have suffered injuries due to the negligence or actions of others on the road.

What is the value of my Murfreesboro motorcycle accident claim?

The value of your motorcycle accident claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your property damage, and the fault of the other driver.

Economic damages are those that can be quantified, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages are those that are more difficult to quantify, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Insurance companies use a variety of factors to calculate the value of a motorcycle accident claim, including:

  • The severity of your injuries. The more serious your injuries, the higher the value of your claim.
  • The extent of your property damage. If your motorcycle was totaled, you will be entitled to the full market value of the bike.
  • The fault of the other driver. If the other driver was at fault for the accident, you should be able to recover damages from their insurance company.

In some cases, you may also be able to recover damages for other losses, such as loss of consortium (if you are married) or punitive damages (if the other driver acted in a reckless, egregious, or malicious manner).

It is important to note that insurance companies often underestimate the value of motorcycle accident claims. This is because they have a vested interest in paying out as little as possible. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case and get a fair assessment of your damages.

What causes Murfreesboro motorcycle accidents?

Motorcycle accidents in Murfreesboro, like anywhere, can be caused by a variety of factors. Some common causes include:

  • Driver negligence. The most prevalent cause involves other motorists failing to see or yield to motorcyclists, making abrupt lane changes, or violating traffic rules.
  • Distracted driving. Drivers using phones, adjusting the radio, or engaging in other distractions may not be fully aware of their surroundings, increasing the risk of accidents involving motorcyclists.
  • Speeding. Excessive speed reduces the time a driver has to react to changing road conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents, especially in situations where motorcycles may be harder to spot.
  • Impaired driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely, putting motorcyclists at higher risk.
  • Lane changes and merging. Sudden or improper lane changes by other vehicles can lead to collisions with motorcycles, especially if the driver is unaware of a nearby rider.
  • Weather conditions. Adverse weather, such as rain or fog, can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, contributing to accidents involving motorcycles.
  • Road hazards. Potholes, debris, and uneven road surfaces pose greater risks to motorcycles than to larger vehicles, potentially causing loss of control.
  • Inexperienced riders. Lack of experience or proper training can contribute to motorcycle accidents, as riders may struggle to navigate challenging road situations.

What should I do after a Murfreesboro motorcycle accident?

After a motorcycle accident, we recommend you take the following steps to protect your physical health and any possible future legal action.

  • Prioritize safety. Ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. Move to a safe location if possible and seek medical attention for any injuries.
  • Call law enforcement. Report the accident to the police, providing accurate and detailed information. This documentation will be valuable for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
  • Exchange information. Obtain contact and insurance information from all parties involved. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details.
  • Gather evidence. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, damages, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs or signals. This visual evidence can be valuable later on.
  • Get witness information. If there are any witnesses, collect their contact information. Their statements may be essential for corroborating your account of the accident.
  • Seek medical attention. Even if you don't believe your injuries are severe, it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and having a medical record is important for insurance claims and legal actions.
  • Document everything. Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, expenses, and any other losses you incur as a result of the accident.
  • Contact an attorney: Reach out to a Murfreesboro personal injury attorney with experience in motorcycle accidents. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you seek compensation for your injuries and damages.

Remember, every case is unique, and seeking professional legal advice is key to ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.

The dangers of motorcycle accidents

In 2021, 2,875 motorcycle accidents occurred in Tennessee, with 160 fatalities. Motorcycle accidents can be particularly dangerous due to a combination of factors. First, the lack of protective barriers on a motorcycle leaves riders more exposed to the impact of a collision. Unlike cars, motorcycles lack the structural frame to absorb and distribute the force of a crash.

Motorcyclists are also 5.1 times more likely to be killed or injured in a crash than other types of drivers.

Additionally, the smaller size of motorcycles makes them less visible to other motorists, increasing the likelihood of being involved in accidents. Maneuverability, which can be an advantage in some situations, can also pose a risk when other drivers fail to anticipate a motorcycle's movements.

Motorcycles also offer less stability than four-wheeled vehicles, making them more susceptible to skidding, tipping, or losing control, especially in adverse weather conditions. Finally, the absence of safety features like airbags and seat belts on motorcycles exacerbates the potential for injury in the event of a crash.

What are common injuries from Murfreesboro motorcycle accidents?

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection compared to enclosed vehicles. Common injuries include:

  • Road rash. Sliding on the road surface can cause abrasions and lacerations, commonly referred to as road rash. These injuries can range from mild to severe, depending on protective gear and the speed of the crash.
  • Fractures and broken bones. The impact of a motorcycle accident can lead to fractures and breaks in the bones, particularly in the limbs and extremities.
  • Brain injuries. Even with helmets, riders can suffer traumatic brain injuries, concussions, or other head injuries in accidents, especially if the helmet is improperly worn or of inadequate quality.
  • Spinal cord injuries. The spine is vulnerable in motorcycle accidents, and injuries to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or long-term neurological issues.
  • Soft tissue injuries: Muscles, ligaments, and tendons can be strained, sprained, or torn in a motorcycle accident, causing pain and limiting mobility.
  • Internal injuries. The force of impact can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
  • Disfigurement and scarring. Severe accidents can lead to permanent disfigurement or scarring, impacting not only physical health but also emotional well-being.
  • Amputations. In some cases, the severity of an accident may result in the loss of a limb, significantly affecting a person's quality of life.

If you've been involved in a serious motorcycle accident, consulting with a personal injury attorney in Murfreesboro can help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the injuries.

Do you have a Murfreesboro motorcycle accident attorney near me?

Rocky McElhaney Law Firm is located at 2805 Old Fort Parkway, Suite H, Murfreesboro, TN 37128. We offer plenty of parking and we’re just a few minutes’ drive from the Rutherford County Courthouse. If you are unable to meet us in person, we are happy to schedule a phone or video conference.

Murfreesboro motorcycle accident lawyers fighting for you

At Rocky McElhaney Law Firm, we know how to fight when you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident. Talk to us today to find out how we can help you secure compensation for your injuries and losses – our Murfreesboro motorcycle accident attorneys are standing by. We handle claims throughout the state of Tennessee. To schedule a free consultation, call our offices or fill out our contact form today. We also have offices in Nashville, East Nashville, Clarksville, and Hendersonville.

Cases We Handle